Calm in Nyanza, North Eastern as residents take part in impeachment hearings

Residents follow public participation exercise at Kisii Agricultural Training Center. [Sammy Omingo, Standard]

As public hearings on the impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua began across the country, most regions, including Western and Nyanza, saw calm participation.

In Kisumu, some residents supported the impeachment, calling Gachagua a "tribalist" and criticising his leadership.

"We've heard claims of Kenya being a shareholding state and about 'usiguse murima;' he is undermining the presidency," one resident said.

In Kakamega, opinions were divided. While some praised the DP's loyalty to President Ruto, others protested, arguing both should vacate office.

"If Gachagua is impeached, Ruto must go too," a resident declared.

The process in Kisii continued peacefully, while in Wajir, residents expressed dissatisfaction with Gachagua over comments that strained relations between the Somali and Kikuyu communities in Eastleigh.

In West Pokot, opinions were split, with some residents critiquing the DP's leadership and others defending him as a committed leader.

MPs from West Pokot County were notably absent from a public participation forum at Mtello Hall in Kapenguria, which was convened to discuss the potential impeachment of Gachagua.

Low turnout at Mtello Hall in West Pokot during the public participation in the impeachment against DP Rigathi Gachagua. [Irisheel Shanzu, Standard]

The absence occurred despite their earlier signatures in support of the impeachment motion.

Gachagua faces impeachment on 10 grounds, including accusations of amassing Sh5.2 billion in questionable wealth, gross misconduct, and undermining the President. Despite attempts by the DP and his allies to halt the process, court orders have allowed the motion to proceed.

Reporting by Sharon Wanga, Irissheel Shanzu, Michael Mute and Mumo Munuve.